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A month out from the muster only around 60 horses had homes, but the application total came in at over 270, with KHH receiving a massive influx of applications in March after the annual population survey showed 621, meaning there were 321 horses too many within the range.

However logistically the group can only re-home a maximum 160 horses from one muster so the Department of Conservation (DOC) and KHH are planning a second operation for the last week of May to muster and re-home a further 150 horses.

DOC Central Plateau operations manager Dave Lumley described it as a great outcome.

"This is the result of a big effort by both horse advocacy groups — KHH and KWHPS — and demonstrates the value of our Kaimanawa Wild Horse Advisory Group in working together towards positive solutions."

"We'd also like to thank the public for supporting the work of both re-homing groups," Mr Lumley said.

The muster is held every two years by the Department of Conservation to manage the herd at the sustainable level of 300 horses within the area as recommended by the Kaimanawa Wild Horse Advisory Group. This allows horses in the herd to maintain best condition and protects the fragile ecosystems unique to the Moawhango Ecological zone.